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One injured in tanker collision One injured in tanker collision
(about 1 hour later)
At least one person has been seriously hurt in a series of collisions on the same stretch of road in County Durham.At least one person has been seriously hurt in a series of collisions on the same stretch of road in County Durham.
Police said an initial crash involving two tankers, two lorries and a car was reported on the A19 between Peterlee and Wellfield at 2215 BST on Friday.Police said an initial crash involving two tankers, two lorries and a car was reported on the A19 between Peterlee and Wellfield at 2215 BST on Friday.
A further crash involving 18 vehicles happened on the opposite carriageway.A further crash involving 18 vehicles happened on the opposite carriageway.
There was then a third crash on a sliproad involving three cars, including a police car. Police say fog may have been a factor.There was then a third crash on a sliproad involving three cars, including a police car. Police say fog may have been a factor.
A statement issued by the police said: "At least one person is thought to be seriously injured in the car involved (in the initial crash).A statement issued by the police said: "At least one person is thought to be seriously injured in the car involved (in the initial crash).
"However it is proving difficult for paramedics and fire crews to gain access to this vehicle as it is in very close proximity to the tankers.""However it is proving difficult for paramedics and fire crews to gain access to this vehicle as it is in very close proximity to the tankers."
The fire service said they were working to free three people who were trapped, two in cars and one in a lorry.
It is believed the tankers are leaking fuel.It is believed the tankers are leaking fuel.
No-one is believed to have been injured in the other two collisions.No-one is believed to have been injured in the other two collisions.
Police have warned the A19 will remain closed for several hours.Police have warned the A19 will remain closed for several hours.